7 gardening tasks you should never skip

You may think that gardens can look great with a little neglect, and sure, the wild look can work for a lot of green spaces, but even if you’re going for a free and easy unmanaged look, there are a few gardening tasks you’ll regret skipping…

1. Weeding

Weeding is no one’s favourite thing to do in the garden, and you may forgo it in favour of a cold beer and a cosy seat under the pergola, but if you do, you’ll probably live to regret it. Why? Because if you ignore those weeds, they will get bigger, take over more space, and soon your flowers and crops will be choked out by them. It’s better to have a weeding session every now and again then face the fightback against a jungle, right?

2. Watering

Watering your garden is a bit like making a cup of tea – everyone has an opinion on how it should be done. Over-water, and your plants may get waterlogged and sulk in a puddle. Under-water, and they’ll be gasping for a drink. The key is regular checks, especially during dry spells. Early morning is the optimum time, preventing evaporation and giving your plants a lovely start to the day. Just right, like the Goldilocks of gardening!

3. Tree lopping

Tree lopping isn’t just for the overly tidy types who want their gardens to be perfectly orderly, you know. If you want your trees to stay healthy and give you that stunning foliage you love year after year, it’s essential. Don’t have the skulls or stamina? Call in a professional to do it for you. Sorted!

4. Feeding your plants

Plants need food to grow into the brightest, boldest, best versions of themselves – it really is that simple! Use compost or a suitable fertiliser to give them the nutrients they crave. It’s the equivalent of a vitamin boost – just sprinkle around the base, and they’ll thank you by flourishing.

5. Pest patrol

Ignore the signs of pests at your peril. Left unchecked, these little beasts can wreak havoc faster than you can say “locust plague”. Regularly inspect your plants for tell-tale damage and deal with invaders swiftly using organic methods if possible. It’s a bit like playing detective, but in wellies and with a spray bottle.

6. Mulching

Mulching isn’t just to make your garden beds look pretty. It helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep soil temperatures steady. Apply a good layer of organic mulch like bark or straw to your beds and see how it can reduce the amount of time you spend watering and weeding. Plus, it gives your garden that “just got dressed” look.

7. Seasonal clean-up

At the end of each season, give your garden a good tidy-up. Remove spent plants, rake up leaves and generally neaten things up. It’s like a reset button for your garden, preparing it for the next season’s growth. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying – it’s the gardener’s version of a deep clean!

Skip these tasks, and you may just find yourself the ruler of a very sad, very dead garden. Is it really worth it?

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Passionate about petals: Spring garden checks to do now

With the new season just underway, there are a few spring garden checks to make as the warmer weather comes in and the bloom begins. From preparing the flowerbeds to weeding and even mowing the lawn, here are some handy suggestions to get you excited for the season.

Inspect the water systems

Some may say there’s some great pleasure in watering flowers, plants and shrubs with a watering can. And maybe they’re right. But with a large garden to tend to, this isn’t always the best or most practical idea. It will take time, energy and much more water. A drip irrigation system can save up to 95% of the water from a can or sprinkler. It may be a good idea to book irrigation repairs or an inspection. This will help it work properly and resolve any issues caused by a harsh winter.

Prepare the flowerbeds

Spring is an excellent time for planting new flowers. Yet, after the winter neglect, the flowerbeds can become a little unkempt. Weeds and general debris will deplete the soil. Whether you want to plant vegetables, herbs or flowers, a little clean-up is necessary. It’s also a good idea to did over winter mulch, cut back dead foliage and give the hedges a little prune. And remember, you don’t know what you’ll find, so wear some protective gloves for this task!

Spring garden checks includes patios

Who doesn’t love a good patio or decking? What an enjoyable way to enjoy your garden during spring, summer and early autumn. Plus, investing in decking can add between 5% and 10% to the value of your home! Before you can relax, though, it will need some TLC. Winter can throw all kinds at the patio and decking, and around half an hour of work can make them look as good as new. Clear away debris, check for splinters and cracks and clear away any moss or grime.

Check weeds and spread mulch

Weeds are the scourge of any beautiful garden, and they become rampant during spring. The warmer temperature encourages their growth, and they can become a problem if left unchecked for too long. So grab the hoe from the shed and get to work! Applying a layer of fresh mulch will help control weeds in a more natural way than if using a chemical weed killer.

Don’t forget the lawn

Mowing the lawn is a great way to spend some outdoor time or to teach the kids some responsibility! Mowing the lawn can be so enjoyable and fulfilling that between 75% and 85% of people (in the US) do it themselves. Given that it’s often a large patch of grass in front or at the back of your home, it’s hard to overlook it. But some people do or simply neglect it. But this is a mistake; a lawn becomes much more challenging the longer you leave it, so grab an old choppy from the shed! Alternatively, if you prefer a less labour-intensive and a more environmentally friendly option, develop a wildflower meadow type area instead.

Summary

The garden needs more love when the weather gets warmer and days become longer. Inspecting your water systems, clearing the patio and decking and mowing the lawn are necessary spring garden checks to do now. Doing so will prepare your flower beds and borders and get rid of weeds for the new season ahead.

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What are the best plants and trees to add to your garden?

Transforming your garden into a lush oasis requires a careful selection of plants and trees. The right choices not only enhance the aesthetics but also provide year-round interest and support local wildlife. In this guide, we explore a variety of options, from towering trees to vibrant shrubs, to help you bring life and vibrancy to your garden. Don’t forget to have a look at your options for garden sheds to be able to keep all of your tools away properly no matter the weather. This way you don’t have to worry about what you’re using or if it’s going to be in good condition because you know that it will be. Whether you seek shade, colour or a combination of both, these recommendations will help inspire your choices when adding more plants to your garden.

Evergreens

Evergreens are invaluable additions to any garden, offering year-round beauty, structure and practicality. Their vibrant foliage remains lush and green throughout the seasons, providing a constant backdrop of colour and texture. Evergreens also act as reliable privacy screens, shielding your garden from prying eyes, wind and noise. Moreover, they serve as wildlife habitats, attracting birds and beneficial insects. Varieties like pine, spruce and cedar are easy to maintain, making them excellent choices for low-maintenance landscapes. Hedging UK offers a range of evergreen hedging plants such as Portuguese laurel, green beech and holly.

Perennials

Choosing perennials for your garden is a wise investment in lasting beauty and reduced maintenance. These enduring plants return year after year, offering a dependable source of colour, texture and fragrance. With a wide array of options like hostas, day lilies and coneflowers, you can create diverse landscapes that suit your style and climate. Unlike annuals, perennials require less replanting, saving time and money. They also promote soil health and attract pollinators. By carefully selecting perennials that thrive in your region, you can establish a garden that provides enduring charm and evolves with each passing season, making it a sustainable and enjoyable space each year.

Climbing plants

Selecting climbing plants for your garden is a captivating way to maximise vertical space and add lush, vertical interest. These versatile wonders, such as clematis, wisteria and honeysuckle, bring beauty and functionality to your outdoor space. Climbers can adorn walls, trellises and arbours, softening harsh structures and creating enchanting focal points. Many varieties produce fragrant blooms, attracting pollinators and creating an inviting atmosphere. Some even bear edible fruits or provide dense foliage for added privacy.

Wildflowers

Wildflowers are crucial components of ecosystems and play diverse vital roles in our environment. First, they support pollinators like bees and butterflies, aiding in the reproduction of many plant species, including agricultural crops. Additionally, they help control soil erosion by stabilising soil with their roots, improving soil health and water retention. Wildflowers also offer habitat and food for various wildlife species, promoting biodiversity. Furthermore, they enhance air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Their beauty and adaptability make them valuable for landscaping and rewilding efforts, enriching our landscapes while fostering a sustainable and biodiverse natural world.

Herb collections

Herb collections are a delightful and practical addition to any garden or kitchen. These aromatic plants provide a steady supply of fresh, flavourful ingredients for cooking, enhancing culinary creations with vibrant tastes and aromas. Moreover, growing and cultivating your own herbs can be an educational and rewarding experience, deepening your understanding of plant care and herbal remedies.

Fruit and veg

Growing your own fruit and vegetables in your garden is a rewarding and sustainable endeavour. It allows you to enjoy the freshest, most flavourful produce right at your doorstep. Not only does it save money, but it also reduces your carbon footprint by cutting down on transportation and packaging. Gardening fosters a deeper connection with nature and provides a sense of accomplishment as you nurture plants from seed to table. Moreover, it encourages a healthier diet, packed with vitamins and nutrients.

Native plants

Native plants are a superb choice for your garden, promoting local biodiversity and requiring minimal maintenance. Consider including bluebells, known for their enchanting springtime displays, and foxgloves, which attract bees and add vertical interest. Meadowsweet offers delicate white flowers and is excellent for damp areas. Red campion provides vibrant pink blooms and yarrow boasts clusters of small, white flowers that draw pollinators. All these native plants are well-suited to the UK’s climate and soil conditions, making them eco-friendly and visually appealing choices for your garden.

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Our week that was: All about cooking and gardening

This week was all about cooking and gardening. Even though I barely left the house, it was a very busy and sociable seven days.

Garden group visit

On Thursday, we hosted a garden visit by some of the members of our local Women’s Institute Garden Group and some from the village Facebook Garden Group. It was a glorious, sunny evening and the timing was just right – our garden is looking lovely with a lot of the plants currently coming into flower. I baked a batch of chocolate chip cookies and a tray of chocolate covered flapjacks for our guests to have with their teas and coffees.

Women’s Institute plant sale & coffee morning

At the weekend, the Women’s Institute organised a plant sale and coffee morning at the Cottage. I didn’t get my seed sowing act together this year, so I couldn’t provide any plants or seedlings. Instead, my contribution was of the baked variety; pecan blondies.

The event was a great success, very well attended, and I went home with a tray of various flowering plants and vegetable seedlings for our garden.

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The Bear

Justin & I met in Brighton in the 1990s while working as chefs in the same Mexican restaurant. We both worked in restaurants, kitchens and bars for about 20 years each; because of this, The Bear appealed to us. First aired in June last year, the 8-episode series has received good reviews and numerous awards.

We watched the first episode and almost left it at that. It was full-on, high octane and made us remember why we’re glad we no longer work in the industry. We decided to stick at it, and we’re glad we did, we really enjoyed it. The acting, dialogue and photography were top quality; it left us wanting more.

The Bear is available to watch on Hulu – the second series is due to be released later this month (June 2023).

H is for Home Harbinger

Tag: gardening